2012 mazda miata Model Overview

Since 1989, the MX-5 Miata’s simplicity in concept and style, combined with superb nimbleness, has won the hearts of nearly one million buyers worldwide. Buyers have become enamored with the Miata’s highly attractive combination of performance, value, and functionality. Adding to its versatility, the 2012 MX-5 can be had with either an easy-to-operate soft top, or a power-folding hardtop.

It isn’t the most powerful or fastest convertible on the road, but its driving dynamics make it a front-runner for the most fun. Its front mid-ship mounted engine and rear-drive layout combined with rigid chassis and suspension tuning contribute to its inherently good driving dynamics.

Although larger than the first two generations, the current car remains true to its compact, lightweight roots; offering communicative steering and handling. The base Sport trim comes well-appointed and top Grand Touring models add Bose audio and leather trimmed seats. Its 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine makes 167 horsepower and 140 lb-ft of torque, which is enough for the small roadster to move with authority. Sport models make do with a five-speed manual transmission. Touring and Grand Touring models step up to a six-speed manual. A six-speed automatic is available across the line.

Body style: Convertible

Engine: 2.0L I-4

Transmissions: 6-speed manual, 5-speed manual, 6-speed automatic

Models: Sport, Touring, Grand Touring

Stability control and traction control become standard and are no longer part of the premium package. No other changes for 2012. Power-retractable hardtop (PRHT) models are offered alongside soft-top models, but have the same trunk space. Last year, the PRHT Sport was discontinued. In the 2011 model year, PRHT models gained chrome door handles and front headlight bezels; the trunklid-mounted third brake light is slimmer, and the lens is now white instead of red; the storage compartment behind the seat is gone; top open-and-close switches are now above the audio.

The current MX-5 debuted in 2006 and hit the market slightly larger and roomier than previous iterations. It gained new design cues including RX-8-like wheel flares, a taller beltline, and a more voluptuously rounded rear. It also gained a dominating oval “mouth” grille opening reminiscent of the original 1989 Miata. Headlights and taillights are placed inboard from the corners to accentuate the compactness. The overall design is attractive and modern.

With 167 horsepower and 140 lb-ft of torque, the 2.0-liter four-cylinder was able to get the 2588-pound MX-5 PRHT Grand Touring to 60 mph from a standstill in 6.4 seconds and through the quarter mile in 14.9 seconds at 91 mph. The 72-pound lighter soft-top-equipped MX-5 Grand Touring reached 60 in 6.5 seconds and the quarter mile in 14.9 seconds at a slightly faster 92.2 mph. Around the skidpad the PRHT ran 0.90 g versus the soft-top’s 0.91 g. The cars stop from 60 mph in 117 and 115 feet, respectively. Although the MX-5’s numbers are competent, the compact convertible is about more than just its measured performance. Rather, the front mid-ship engine and rear-wheel-drive layout give it almost telepathic levels of grip and phenomenal cornering ability. Weight transitions are smooth and tracking is predictable. Bilstein shocks and a limited-slip differential are available as part of a suspension package.

The two-seat MX-5 comes with driver and passenger airbags as well as side-impact air bags. An antilock brake system (ABS) with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist aide in stopping. Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) and Traction Control System (TCS) keep it on the driver’s intended course. Side-impact door beams and a collapsible steering column protect the occupants in case of a collision. A Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) is standard.

Other Mazda Models

2012 Mazda Miata Pricing

Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price

$23,470

Certified Pre Owned Pricewhat is this?

$12,100

Certified Pre-Owned Price is the approximate price a consumer can expect to pay at a dealership for a used vehicle that has passed the manufacturer's certification process. This price applies only to vehicles covered under an automaker's CPO program, not to a dealership's own "certified" used price.

2012 Mazda Miata News and Reviews

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Mazda UK and Jota Sport will offer built-to-order MX-5 GT4 race cars for the 2013 racing season, the automaker has announced. The price? The U.S.-equivalent of just under $200,000 for the car, which weighs about 1000 kilograms, or 2200 pounds. Though the MX-5 GT4 racer looks like the production car it’s based on, the series car is more powerful, lighter,…

The Monster Miata was born when the owner of a low-mileage Miata appeared at Martin Wilson’s shop asking him to stuff a Mustang 5.0-liter V-8 in his roadster. On this episode of The Downshift, Wilson shares his passion for the Monster Miata as well as details about its future.Wilson became a fabricator at a young age, saying he was inspired…

As we expected, Mazda has face-lifted its popular MX-5 Miata. The new version of the Miata roadster goes on sale today in Japan with a new face, a new pedestrian safety feature, and a couple minor performance tweaks.We recently saw leaked brochure images that previewed some of the visual updates to the Mazda MX-5 for Japan. A spokesperson told us…

We love the Mazda MX-5 Miata; it's one of the most fun-to-drive cars on the market today. Miata fans are in luck – the current-gen NC car is receiving a modest face-lift for the 2013 model year.UPDATE: Get the full scoop on the refreshed 2013 Mazda MX-5 Miata's Japanese-market changes here.The MX-5 OC Forum managed to get their hands on brochure…